Portland’s river scene offers practical, well-organized boat tours along the Willamette River – all within walking distance of downtown hotels. The basic 1.5-hour Happy Hour cruise is perfect for budget travelers, while the evening dinner cruise with live entertainment gives you the best city lights experience. I’m especially fond of the champagne brunch cruise – the food is fresh and the morning views are spectacular.
For adventure seekers, the jetboat tours to the Columbia River Gorge deliver thrills while teaching you about local geology and legends. These high-speed rides are a fun alternative to traditional sightseeing boats.
Let’s explore my favorite Portland boat tours and what makes each special.
Key Points
- The Happy Hour Sightseeing Cruise offers a 1.5-hour climate-controlled boat tour along the Willamette River with a full-service bar and bistro menu.
- The Willamette River Dinner Cruise provides a 2.5-hour experience with a three-course meal and live piano music.
- The Lunch Cruise on the Willamette River features a 2-hour tour with scenic views, a Northwest-inspired lunch, and historical narration.
- The Champagne Brunch Cruise offers a 2-hour all-you-can-eat buffet with bottomless champagne, mimosas, and other beverages.
- The Jetboat Cruises from Portland include the 7 Wonders of the Gorge Cruise and the Bigfoot Adventure Cruise, both offering thrilling views and experiences.
Portland: Happy Hour Sightseeing Cruise
The Portland Happy Hour Sightseeing Cruise offers a delightful way to take in the city’s sights from the comfort of a climate-controlled boat.
This 1.5-hour cruise along the Willamette River provides historical narration, panoramic views from the observation deck, and both indoor and outdoor seating.
Customers can enjoy a full-service bar and bistro menu while cruising to Waverly Country Club and back.
With a 4.6/5 overall rating, this activity is wheelchair accessible and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The only suggested improvement is to include a drink ticket with the $962 per person price.
Read our full review: Portland: Happy Hour Sightseeing Cruise Review
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Portland: Willamette River 2.5-hour Dinner Cruise
A 2.5-hour dinner cruise along the Willamette River in Portland offers guests a chance to enjoy a freshly prepared three-course meal while taking in the city’s scenic waterfront views.
Priced at $127 per person, the cruise provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.
During the journey, guests can listen to live piano music and explore the outer decks, which offer historical narration.
With an overall rating of 4.5/5 from over 100 reviews, the cruise has been praised for its excellent food, welcoming staff, and romantic atmosphere.
Read our full review: Portland: Willamette River 2.5-hour Dinner Cruise Review
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Portland: 2-hour Lunch Cruise on the Willamette River
For a delightful midday respite, guests can hop aboard a 2-hour Lunch Cruise along the Willamette River in Portland. Priced at $87 per person, the cruise provides scenic views of downtown Portland, live piano music, and historical narration.
Guests can enjoy a freshly prepared Northwest lunch with entree options, as well as side salads, appetizers, and desserts available for purchase.
With an overall rating of 4.6/5 based on 114 reviews, the cruise is praised for its excellent food, service, and value.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and guests can reserve their spot without upfront payment.
Read our full review: Portland: 2-hour Lunch Cruise on the Willamette River Review
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Portland: Champagne Brunch Cruise on Willamette River
Portland’s picturesque Willamette River sets the stage for an unforgettable Champagne Brunch Cruise.
This 2-hour excursion offers an all-you-can-eat buffet featuring fresh, gourmet fare and bottomless champagne, mimosas, and other beverages. Guests can enjoy live piano music and historical narration while indulging in the delectable desserts.
The cruise is wheelchair accessible, and a dedicated server is available throughout. With a 4.9/5 rating based on 31 reviews, this experience is a must-do event in Portland, offering excellent value for money.
Arrive 30 minutes early, and be sure to bring your ID. Rain or shine, this cruise is a delightful way to spend a day on the river.
Read our full review: Portland: Champagne Brunch Cruise on Willamette River Review
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From Portland: 7 Wonders of the Gorge Jetboat Cruise
This thrilling 3.5-hour jetboat cruise takes passengers on a high-speed journey through the awe-inspiring Columbia River Gorge.
Departing from Portland, the cruise offers breathtaking views of landmarks like Multnomah Falls, Cape Horn, and Mount Hood at speeds up to 45 miles per hour.
A live guide provides engaging narration, while an audio guide enhances the experience.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the cruise is suitable for those steady on their feet.
Passengers should dress for the weather and bring essentials like sunscreen and binoculars.
With a 4.3/5 rating, this cruise is a must for visitors seeking an exhilarating adventure and panoramic vistas of the stunning Pacific Northwest landscape.
Read our full review: From Portland: 7 Wonders of the Gorge Jetboat Cruise Review
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From Portland: Bigfoot Adventure 3.5-hour Jetboat Cruise
The Bigfoot Adventure 3.5-hour Jetboat Cruise offers an exhilarating journey along the Willamette and Columbia Rivers, departing from Portland.
At a price from $90 per person, this 80-mile roundtrip cruise provides narration from “Finding Bigfoot” star Cliff Barackman as you travel at speeds up to 45 mph.
Spotting wildlife and passing river boats, you’ll explore Bigfoot lore while enjoying scenic views, including Multnomah Falls.
While not suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or young children, the adventure-style experience may involve turbulent motion, so consult a doctor if needed.
Passengers can bring their own food and beverages, and should dress warmly for the open-water journey.
Read our full review: From Portland: Bigfoot Adventure 3.5-hour Jetboat Cruise Review
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Recap
Portland offers a variety of cruises and boat tours to suit different interests and budgets. From scenic sightseeing to gourmet dining, visitors can explore the Willamette River and the Columbia River Gorge. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon or an adventure-filled excursion, there’s a cruise or tour that fits the bill in and around Portland.